Osaka
Kyoto
Tokyo
Conservative City but I loved Osaka Castle.
Ancient temples and history.
Go here for neon lights and amazing food.
Osaka in 5 Days
I spent 5 days in Osaka and to be honest it was 3 days to long. There is a lot to see but Kyoto and Tokyo offered more of what I wanted. Osaka Castle was well worth it and I would recommend going just to see it.
Tip
Catch a flight from Honolulu to Osaka. The flights I found were more affordable. Once in Osaka it’s easy to use the trains to get around.
If you can afford it take AirAsia and buy a flat bed ticket, so worth the rest and sleep.
#1 recommendation when in Osaka.
Right next to Osaka Castle and you can get a great picture of it with skyscrapers behind it. The miniature scenes of Jappanesse life are jaw dropping
$30 USD and my favorite hostel in Japan. It’s also only 3km from Osaka Castle and not a bad walk.
- Osaka to Kyoto 1750 yen
- Kyoto to Tokyo 1500 yen
- NO baggage to drag on the train.
Day trip from Osaka to Nara
Tip
Allow more than 1 day in Nara.
Kyoto in 5 Days
Tip
Rent a bike to get around Kyoto. There is so much to see and a lot of walking. I averaged 6-12 miles of walking a day, so a bike is far easier.
Unfortunately for me, the National Museum was closed but the gardens were lovely. Kyoto Tower at night is really pretty and good picture.
I loved the Monkey Park but I could have lived without the Bamboo Grove.
Great price and close to a train station.
Tokyo in 5 Days
Tip
Pace yourself! This town is huge. Don’t use taxi’s if you can help it, they’re expensive and can quickly us up your budget.
This place was very cool. Go at night for the full effect.
The museums in Japan have to be some of the best I’ve been to. Edo Museum is right up there as an top contender.
Meiji Temple I witnessed a traditional wedding. One of the neatest experiences that day. I was really disappointed about the Imperial Palace.
If there is a Tower for pictures of a city, I’m there.
Bring your walking shoes. Museums, statues and temples are all within walking distance.
This area was super fun. Lots of shopping and eating places and wall art. I found the temple by pure accident but go at night because it’s gorgeous.